Collongues

Its aging homes are clustered in a circle, like a fortified castle of old, as though to ward off assailants from both heaven and earth. When venturing into its sloping streets, ones that seem to lead nowhere in particular, the village’s originality becomes evident.

But such wandering gives you a chance to appreciate the many ancient architectural vestiges, like the castle, medieval church, and vaulted porches.

The Riou River crosses through Collongues, nourishing the broad, verdant...